Think Creatively, Put Down the Zoom and Try a Prime Lens

My walkabout lens is usually a zoom, either the Canon 24-70mm L (for stills) or the Canon 15-55mm IS EF-S (for video). Zooms make composing easy. Stand still and just zoom in or out. But, zooms can also make you complacent. If you want to get out of a creative rut, try something different.

There is a whole photographic movement dedicated to using a 50mm lens, sometimes referred to as “street photography“. Capture life in the moment from in the middle of it, or something like that. So, armed with my Canon 35mm L (55mm with the Canon 7D’s crop), I went for a walk around Manhattan. Eventually, I ended up in Times Square and the NYPD proved to be a great subject to study.

Using a prime lens may seem outdated. But, you may find the lens to be sharper with better clarity and color. With a lens like the 35mm L, you also get a f/1.4 which can open other areas of creativity. And, that’s the point … you have to think about using the lens instead of just zooming!

If you are thinking about experimenting with a prime lens, be sure to check Adorama for a bargain on a used lens. I purchased my Canon 35mm L used from Adorama and saved $400 over the cost of a new lens! Did I mention that a great bargain can also stimulate creativity?? Well, at least you can also think about how to spend the money you just saved 😉